System and method for a nondestructive on-line testing of samples

ABSTRACT

An MRI-free non-destructive on-line system for detecting a presence of a material in a sample. The system includes: a flow conduit encompassed by a tunable RF coil and having an input duct and an output duct; a flow of the sample through the flow conduit; a signal detector that detects frequency-dependent output signals as a function of a frequency variation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range of an RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of the substance; and a processing unit.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/234,433, filed Sep. 16, 2011, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/377,980, nowabandoned, which is the National Stage of International Application No.PCT/IL2007/001043, filed Aug. 21, 2007, which claimed the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/838,887, filed Aug. 21, 2009,which is now expired.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to MRI-based and alternatively to MRI-freesystems and a method for nondestructive on-line testing of a sample of asubstance by means of an MRI device generating RF frequency-dependentMRI (or MRI-free) signals. The MRI (or MRI-free) signals are processedand analyzed to optimize and improve the production process of thesubstance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following prior art is believed to be the current status of the art:

U.S. Pat. No. 6,401,519 describes an improved system for measuringoff-line characteristics of fluids.

Chinese Patent No. 1,417,588 describes an on-line water qualitymonitoring network system including an on-line monitoring instrumentcomprising physical parameter sensor, chemical pollutant densityanalyzer and in-situ flow meter.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,522,988 describes an on-line coupled liquid and gaschromatography system with an interface capillary tube interposedbetween a pair of capillary chromatographic columns.

EP 0730 164 A1 describes an MRI apparatus and method for nondestructivequality assessment and analysis of a sample, such as an umilled ricegrain and a unhulled rice seed. The sproutability of the rice seed andrice grain are determined from the MRI analysis of the food products.

The prior art references do not describe systems and/or methods foroptimizing and improving industrial production processes, for industriessuch as the food production industry, by on-line nondestructive systemsand methods.

Thus, there is an unmet need for on-line nondestructive systems andmethods for controlling industrial production processes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

MRI-Based Non-Destructive On-Line System

The present invention relates to systems and a method for on-linenondestructive monitoring of a sample of a substance by introducing thesample into an MRI device and generating RF frequency-dependent MRIsignals within a frequency range of the resonant frequency of thesubstance. The generated MRI signals are processed and analyzed tooptimize and improve the production process of the substance bydetermining therefrom, reactances and inductances of samples ofsubstances.

In the present invention, the RF frequency of the tunable RF coil of theMRI device generates MRI RF signals which are detected and processed, asknown in the art. By means of Smith Curve software codes, thefrequency-dependent reactances and inductances of samples of substancesare determined. Frequency difference curves are generated and the amountof water, for example, found in the sample is determined.

Thus, using the present invention in a food production industry, it ispossible to determine the quality of the substance undergoingexamination, for example, by determining the relative amount of watercontained in the sample. It is known in the art, that an MRI signalgenerated by a substance is dependent on the number of protons in thesample. Therefore, the MRI signal is dependent on the amount of watercontained in the sample of the substance. Thus, a sample which includesan amount of water which is greater than a standard sample of thesubstance, generates a larger MRI RF signal than that which is generatedby a standard sample. This is beneficial to the food industry.

Using the present invention it is possible to check the contents of asample of a substance, such as an amount of water in a food product, byusing an MRI device and the relevant peripheral devices, as describedhereinbelow. Therefore, using the present invention it is possible toascertain and check if a food product, for example, fulfills thestatutory contents' requirements.

In addition, the present invention is configured for optimizing aproduction process of a substance by ensuring that the productionprocess fulfills requisite requirements. For example, in the foodindustry, it is possible to check additional contents of the foodproducts, such an acidity parameter in the food product as well as theamount of water contained in the food.

Furthermore, the present invention is adapted to measure and controlwater pollution by examining the MRI signals from water contaminant,such as an organic contaminant and/or an inorganic contaminant.

In the present invention, the sample to be tested is in a fluid state orin a solid state.

The non-destructive on-line system of the present invention is alsoadaptable for detecting a presence of at least one material and acharacteristic of the material, such as the size of microns (e.g., 0.1to 10 μm, 10-100 μm, 100 to 1,500 μm), millimeters and centimeters,predefined size distribution and particles shape, A_(w) water contentand any combination thereof.

The present invention is also adapted to determine properties ofsubstances, such as: physical parameters, such as the boiling point,refractive index, viscosity, moisture content, rheologic properties andmagnetic properties, electrochemical parameters, such as conductivity,pH, oxygen content, permittivity permeability and dielectric constant,chemical properties, such as chemical concentration and identity of thecomposition and any combination thereof and biological properties, suchas bacteria, mold, fungi, alga, virus, microorganisms, eukaryotes andany combination thereof.

It is one object of the invention to disclose a non-destructive on-linesystem for detecting a presence of a material in a sample of a substancecomprising: an MRI device; a flow conduit encompassed by the tunable RFcoil of said MRI device and having an input duct and an output duct; aflow of said sample through said flow conduit; a signal detector fordetecting frequency-dependent output signals from said MRI device as afunction of a frequency variation of the RF tunable coil within afrequency range of an RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of saidsubstance, and a processing unit, wherein said processing unit isconfigured to: determine an impedance frequency variation from saidfrequency-dependent output signals and at least one MRI deviceoperational parameter; determine an RF frequency variation of at leastone characteristic parameter of said substance from said impedancefrequency variation, and compare said RF frequency variation of said atleast one characteristic parameter of said sample with an RF frequencyvariation of a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of saidsubstance such that said comparison determines said material content ofsaid sample.

It is one object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said at least onecharacteristic of said substance is selected from the group consistingof at least one physical characteristic, at least one electrochemicalcharacteristic, at least one chemical characteristic and at least onebiological (PPECB) characteristic and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said at least onecharacteristic comprises an electrical inductance of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said at least onecharacteristic comprises an electrical reactance of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said frequency range isapproximately ±100 MHz of said resonant frequency.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said material comprises water.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said output signal comprises avoltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said voltage signal comprisesan RF voltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said processing unit is furtherconfigured to optimize a production process of said sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein adapted to measure and controlthe sample undergoing a modification said modification is selected fromthe group consisting of a physical modification, biologicalmodification, chemical modification and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said sample is selected fromthe group consisting of tomato puree, tomato ketchup, tomato paste,tomato sauce, tomato beverage, tomato soup, tomato concentrate, applepuree, apple paste, apple sauce, apple beverage, apple concentrate,potato puree, potato paste, potato sauce, potato beverage, potatoconcentrate.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein the system is adapted tomeasure and to control water pollution by at least one contaminant, saidat least one contaminant is selected from organic contaminants,inorganic contaminants and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein the system is adapted tomeasure an acidity parameter in a food product.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said physical parameter isselected from the group consisting of boiling point, refractive index,viscosity, moisture content, rheologic properties, magnetic properties.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein the electrochemical parameteris selected from conductivity, pH, oxygen content, permittivitypermeability, dielectric constant and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said chemical parameter isselected from the group consisting of chemical concentration andidentity of the composition and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said biological parameter isselected from the group consisting of bacteria, mold, fungi, alga,virus, microorganisms, eukaryotes and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said sample is further selectedfrom the group consisting of a solid, a sol-gel, a super-criticalsolution and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said material is furtherselected from the group consisting of water-miscible fluids,water-immiscible fluids, aggregated solutions, dispersions, emulsions,solution, slurry, polymer, solid and powder and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said solid is selected from thegroup consisting of nano-particles, fine powders, flowing solids and anycombination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said processor provides a SmithChart of said impedance frequency variation as a function of said RFfrequency such that said impedance frequency variation is function ofthe reactance and inductance of fluid sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said sample comprises a fluidstate.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the non-destructiveon-line system as defined above, wherein said sample comprises a solidstate.

It is another object of the invention to disclose a method for detectinga material in a sample of a substance comprising: providing an MRIdevice; providing a flow conduit encompassed by the tunable RF coil ofsaid MRI device; providing a flow of said sample through said flowconduit; detecting frequency-dependent output signals from said MRIdevice as a function of a frequency variation of the RF tunable coilwithin a frequency range of an RF resonant frequency of a standardsample of said substance, and determining an impedance frequencyvariation from said frequency-dependent output signals and at least onepredetermined MRI operational parameter; determining an RF frequencyvariation of at least one characteristic of said substance from saidimpedance frequency variation; comparing said RF frequency variation ofsaid at least characteristic of said substance with an RF frequencyvariation of a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of saidsubstance, wherein said comparison determines said material content ofsaid sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said at least one characteristic of said substance isselected from the group consisting of at least one physicalcharacteristic, at least one electrochemical characteristic, at leastchemical characteristic and at least one biological (PPECB)characteristic and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said at least one characteristic comprises an electricalinductance of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said at least one characteristic comprises an electricalreactance of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said frequency range is approximately ±100 MHz of saidresonant frequency.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said material comprises water.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said output signal comprises a voltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said voltage signal comprises an RF voltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein the method further comprising optimizing a productionprocess of said sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein the method further comprising measuring and controllingsaid sample undergoing a modification, said modification is selectedfrom the group consisting of a physical modification, biologicalmodification, chemical modification and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said sample is selected from the group consisting oftomato puree, tomato ketchup, tomato paste, tomato sauce, tomatobeverage, tomato soup, tomato concentrate, apple puree, apple paste,apple sauce, apple beverage, apple concentrate, potato puree, potatopaste, potato sauce, potato beverage, potato concentrate.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein the method further comprising measuring and controllingwater pollution by at least one contaminant said at least onecontaminant is selected from organic contaminants, inorganiccontaminants and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein the method comprises measuring an acidity parameter in afood product.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said physical parameter is selected from the groupconsisting of boiling point, refractive index, viscosity, moisturecontent, rheologic properties, magnetic properties.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said electrochemical parameter is selected fromconductivity, pH, oxygen content, permittivity permeability, dielectricconstant and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said chemical parameter is selected from the groupconsisting of chemical concentration and identity of the composition andany combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said biological parameter is selected from the groupconsisting of bacteria, mold, fungi, alga, virus, microorganisms,eukaryotes and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said sample is further selected from the group consistingof a solid, a sol-gel, a super-critical solution and any combinationthereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said material is selected from the group consisting ofwater-miscible fluids, water-immiscible fluids, aggregated solutions,dispersions, emulsions, solution, slurry, polymer, solid and powder andany combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said solid is selected from the group consisting ofnano-particles, fine powders, flowing solids and any combinationthereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said method further comprises providing a Smith Chart ofsaid impedance frequency variation as a function of said RF frequencysuch that said impedance frequency variation is a function of thereactance and inductance of fluid sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said sample comprises a fluid state.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the method as definedabove, wherein said sample comprises a solid state.

It is another object of the invention to disclose a non-destructiveon-line system for detecting a presence of a material in a sample of asubstance comprising: an MRI device; a container encompassed by thetunable RF coil of said MRI device containing said sample; a signaldetector for detecting frequency-dependent output signals from said MRIdevice as a function of a frequency variation of the RF tunable coilwithin a frequency range of an RF resonant frequency of a standardsample of said substance, and a processing unit, wherein said processingunit is configured to: determine an impedance frequency variation fromsaid frequency-dependent output signals and at least one MRI deviceoperational parameter; determine an RF frequency variation of at leastone characteristic parameter of said substance from said impedancefrequency variation, and compare said RF frequency variation of said atleast one characteristic parameter of said sample with an RF frequencyvariation of a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of saidsubstance such that said comparison determines said material content ofsaid sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said at least one characteristic of said substance isselected from the group consisting of at least one physicalcharacteristic, at least one electrochemical characteristic, at leastone chemical characteristic and at least one biological (PPECB)characteristic and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said at least one characteristic comprises an electricalinductance of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said at least one characteristic comprises an electricalreactance of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said frequency range is approximately ±100 MHz of saidresonant frequency.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said material comprises water.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said output signal comprises a voltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said voltage signal comprises an RF voltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said processing unit is further configured to optimize aproduction process of said substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein the system is adapted to measure and control a sampleundergoing a modification, said modification is selected from the groupconsisting of a physical modification, biological modification, chemicalmodification and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said sample is selected from the group consisting oftomato puree, tomato ketchup, tomato paste, tomato sauce, tomatobeverage, tomato soup, tomato concentrate, apple puree, apple paste,apple sauce, apple beverage, apple concentrate, potato puree, potatopaste, potato sauce, potato beverage, potato concentrate.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein the system is adapted to measure and to control waterpollution by at least one contaminant, said at least one contaminant isselected from organic contaminants, inorganic contaminants and anycombination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein the system is adapted to measure an acidity parameter ina food product.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said physical parameter is selected from the groupconsisting of boiling point, refractive index, viscosity, moisturecontent, rheologic properties, magnetic properties.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said electrochemical parameter is selected fromconductivity, pH, oxygen content, permittivity permeability, dielectricconstant and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said chemical parameter is selected from the groupconsisting of chemical concentration and identity of the composition andany combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said biological parameter is selected from the groupconsisting of bacteria, mold, fungi, alga, virus, microorganisms,eukaryotes and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said sample is further selected from the group consistingof a solid, a sol-gel, a super-critical solution and any combinationthereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said material is selected from the group consisting ofwater-miscible fluids, water-immiscible fluids, aggregated solutions,dispersions, emulsions, solution, slurry, polymer, solid and powder andany combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said solid is selected from the group consisting ofnano-particles, fine powders, flowing solids and any combinationthereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said processor provides a Smith Chart of said impedancefrequency variation as a function of said RF frequency such that saidimpedance frequency variation is a function of the reactance andinductance of fluid sample.

It is still another object of the invention to disclose the system asdefined above, wherein said sample comprises a fluid state.

It is another object of the invention to disclose the system as definedabove, wherein said sample comprises a solid state.

MRI-Free Non-Destructive On-Line System

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free (namely anon-magnetic analysis device comprising RF coils) non-destructiveon-line system for detecting a presence of a material in a sample of asubstance comprising: a flow conduit encompassed by the tunable RF coiland having an input duct and an output duct; a flow of said samplethrough said flow conduit; a signal detector for detectingfrequency-dependent output signals as a function of a frequencyvariation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range of an RFresonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance, and aprocessing unit, wherein said processing unit is configured to:determine an impedance frequency variation from said frequency-dependentoutput signals and optionally at least one MRI device operationalparameter; determine an RF frequency variation of at least onecharacteristic parameter of said substance from said impedance frequencyvariation, and compare said RF frequency variation of said at least onecharacteristic parameter of said sample with an RF frequency variationof a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of said substancesuch that said comparison determines said material content of saidsample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said at least one characteristic of saidsubstance is selected from the group consisting of at least one physicalcharacteristic, at least one electrochemical characteristic, at leastone chemical characteristic and at least one biological (PPECB)characteristic and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said at least one characteristic comprises eitheran electrical inductance of said substance or an electrical reactance ofsaid substance.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said frequency range is approximately ±100 MHz ofsaid resonant frequency.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said material comprises water.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said output signal comprises either a voltagesignal or an RF voltage signal.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said processing unit is further configured tooptimize a production process of said sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, configured to measure and control the sample undergoing amodification, said modification is selected from the group consisting ofa physical modification, biological modification, chemical modificationand any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said sample is selected from the group consistingof tomato puree, tomato ketchup, tomato paste, tomato sauce, tomatobeverage, tomato soup, tomato concentrate, apple puree, apple paste,apple sauce, apple beverage, apple concentrate, potato puree, potatopaste, potato sauce, potato beverage, potato concentrate.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, adapted to measure and to control water pollution by atleast one contaminant, said at least one contaminant is selected fromorganic contaminants, inorganic contaminants and any combinationthereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, adapted to measure an acidity parameter in a foodproduct.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said physical parameter is selected from thegroup consisting of boiling point, refractive index, viscosity, moisturecontent, rheologic properties, magnetic properties.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said electrochemical parameter is selected fromconductivity, pH, oxygen content, permittivity permeability, dielectricconstant and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said chemical parameter is selected from thegroup consisting of chemical concentration and identity of thecomposition and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said biological parameter is selected from thegroup consisting of bacteria, mold, fungi, alga, virus, microorganisms,eukaryotes and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said sample is further selected from the groupconsisting of a solid, a sol-gel, a super-critical solution and anycombination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said material is further selected from the groupconsisting of water-miscible fluids, water-immiscible fluids, aggregatedsolutions, dispersions, emulsions, solution, slurry, polymer, solid andpowder and any combination thereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above wherein said solid is selected from the group consistingof nano-particles, fine powders, flowing solids and any combinationthereof.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said processor provides a Smith Chart of saidimpedance frequency variation as a function of said RF frequency suchthat said impedance frequency variation is function of the reactance andinductance of fluid sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free system asdefined above, wherein said sample comprises either a fluid state or asolid state.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-free systemnon-destructive on-line method for detecting a material in a sample of asubstance comprising: providing a flow conduit encompassed by thetunable RF coil; providing a flow of said sample through said flowconduit; detecting frequency-dependent output signals as a function of afrequency variation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range ofan RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance, anddetermining an impedance frequency variation from saidfrequency-dependent output signals; determining an RF frequencyvariation of at least one characteristic of said substance from saidimpedance frequency variation; comparing said RF frequency variation ofsaid at least characteristic of said substance with an RF frequencyvariation of a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of saidsubstance, wherein said comparison determines said material content ofsaid sample.

It is another object of the invention to disclose an MRI-freenon-destructive on-line system for detecting a presence of a material ina sample of a substance comprising: a container encompassed by thetunable RF coil; a signal detector for detecting frequency-dependentoutput signals as a function of a frequency variation of the RF tunablecoil within a frequency range of an RF resonant frequency of a standardsample of said substance, and a processing unit, wherein said processingunit is configured to: determine an impedance frequency variation fromsaid frequency-dependent output signals; determine an RF frequencyvariation of at least one characteristic parameter of said substancefrom said impedance frequency variation, and compare said RF frequencyvariation of said at least one characteristic parameter of said samplewith an RF frequency variation of a corresponding characteristic of astandard sample of said substance such that said comparison determinessaid material content of said sample.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A preferred embodiment of the current invention is described hereinbelowwith reference to the following drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a non-destructive on-line system for detecting a presenceof a material in a sample of a substance, in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 shows a variation of the reactance C(f) as a function of the RFfrequency for a sample of tomato puree, in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 shows the reactance difference curves for three samples of tomatopuree, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 4 shows the frequency variation of the inductance for three samplesof tomato puree, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 5 shows the inductance difference curves for three samples oftomato puree, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 shows a flow chart for a non-destructive on-line method fordetecting a material in a sample of a substance, in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention, and

FIG. 7 shows a non-destructive on-line system for detecting a presenceof a material in a substance, in accordance with another preferredembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Reference is now made to FIG. 1, which shows a non-destructive on-linesystem 10 for detecting a presence of a material in a sample of asubstance, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. The non-destructive on-line system 10 includes, inter alia,an MRI device 12 for generating a magnetic field 14 between an upperportion 16 and a lower portion 18 of the MRI device 12, as is known inthe art. A tunable RF coil 20 encompasses a volume of interest 22 of theMRI device or alternatively MRI-free device 12, as is known in the art.

A flow conduit 24, which is surrounded by the tunable RF coil 20includes an input duct 26 and an output duct 28. The sample of thesubstance flows through the flow conduit 24 from the input duct 26 tothe output duct 28.

A signal detector 30, including inter alia, an antenna 32 detects RFsignals emitted by the MRI device alternatively MRI-free device 12 anddemodulates the received signals to obtain MRI output signals, as isknown in the art. Typically, the output signals are MRI voltage signals

The RF frequency of the RF coil 20 is varied about an RF resonantfrequency of the substance, typically, within a frequency range of ±100MHz of the resonant frequency, such that an RF frequency spectrum isobtained. The from the signal detector 30 are frequency-dependent, V(f).

A processing unit 34 is connected to the signal detector 30 and isconfigured to determine an impedance frequency variation from thefrequency-dependent output voltage signals, V(f), and at least one MRIdevice parameter. Typically, during the operation of the MRI devicealternatively MRI-free device 12, the MRI device alternatively MRI-freedevice 12 records several operational parameters, such as the outputpower, (P), of the RF coil as well as the RF current, I, flowing throughthe RF coil 20.

Based on the MRI device alternatively MRI-free device operationalparameters, the processing unit 34 determines a frequency-dependentimpedance of the substance:Z(f)=V(f)/I  (1).

It is known in the art, that the impedance of a device, Z, is dependenton the reactance and inductance of the device. In particular:Z(f)=R−j/2πfC(f)+2πfL(f)  (2).where R is the resistance, Ω, C is the capacitive reactance, Ω, L is theinductance, H and f is the operating frequency, Hz.

Using a Smith Chart processing code, as is known in the art, theprocessing unit 34 determines the variation of C(f) and L(f) as afunction of the RF frequency.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2, which shows a variation of thereactance C(f) as a function of the RF frequency, MHz for a sample oftomato puree, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. The RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of tomatopuree is approximately 100 MHz. FIG. 2 shows the variation of thereactances R1, R2 and R3 for the three samples of tomato puree, sample1, sample 2 and sample 3, respectively of tomato puree as a function ofthe RF frequency. Each sample of tomato puree includes different amountsof water. The variation of R1 for as a function of frequency, shows thefrequency-dependence reactance variation for a standard sample of tomatopuree (sample 1), including one portion of water. Thefrequency-dependent reactance curves R2 and R3 are for tomato pureeincluding amounts of water different than that of the standard tomatopuree. Sample 2 includes a second portion of water and the sample 3includes a third portion of water.

In FIG. 2, the curves R1, R2 and R3 represent the frequency variationsof the reactances of tomato puree for the three samples, sample 1,sample 2 and sample 3, respectively. Differences in the frequencyspectrum are discernible at frequencies beyond approximately 150 MHz.

Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which shows the reactance differencecurves for the three samples of tomato puree, in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows thedifference curves for the frequency-dependencies of the reactancedifferences (R3−R1) Ω, (R2−R1) Ω and (R3−R2) Ω, for sample 1, sample 2and sample 3.

The reactance curves (R3−R1) and (R2−R1) show the reactance frequencyvariations relative to the reactance of the standard tomato puree,sample 1.

In an MRI-based embodiment, it is known in the art, that the MRI signalis generated by exciting the hydrogen (protons) at RF frequencies and asample including larger quantities of water generates a larger MRIsignal. Therefore, if the puree is diluted with more amounts of waterthan that of the standard tomato puree, the MRI signal for the dilutedpurees increases as a function of the amount of water dilution.

FIG. 3 shows the strength of the MRI signal is a function of the amountof water included in the sample. The curves (R3−R1) and (R2−R1) showthat the tomato puree sample 2 and tomato puree sample 3, include morewater than that of the standard tomato puree sample 1. Furthermore,sample 3 includes more water than sample 2.

Reference is now made to FIG. 4, which shows the frequency variation ofthe inductance L for three samples of tomato puree, in accordance with apreferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, thedifferences in the inductance L1, L2 and L3 are discernible in thefrequency range of approximately 120-145 MHz.

FIG. 4 shows that the inductance resonance of tomato puree is atapproximately 90 MHz. Reference is now made to FIG. 5, which shows theinductance difference curves for the three samples of tomato puree, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5shows the difference curves for the frequency-dependencies of thereactance differences (L3−L1) H, (L2−L1) H and (L3−L2) H, for sample 1,sample 2 and sample 3.

The inductance difference curves (L3−L1) and (L2−L1) show the reactancefrequency variations relative to the reactance of the standard tomatopuree, sample 1 with inductance the frequency-dependency L1.

FIG. 5 shows the strength of the MRI signal is a function of the amountof water included in the sample. The difference curves (L3−L1) and(L2−L1) show that the tomato puree sample 2 and tomato puree sample 3,include more water than that of the standard tomato puree sample 1.Furthermore, sample 3 includes more water than sample 2.

Thus, using the system shown in FIG. 1 it is possible to test if asample of a food product fulfills food standard criteria regarding theamounts of water contained therein. It is appreciated that the system ofFIG. 1 is also available for determining additional characteristics ofthe substance, such as physical, chemical, electrochemical andbiological parameters and characteristics of the sample of thesubstance.

Reference is now made to FIG. 6, which shows a flow chart 100 for anon-destructive on-line method for detecting a material in a sample of asubstance, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. In step 102, the MRI device or alternatively MRI-free device12 is activated and the flow conduit 24 is filled with substance (step104).

In step 106, the RF coil 20 is tuned to the resonant frequency of thesubstance and the MRI signal voltage is recorded. In step 107, the RFfrequency of the RF coil 20 is varied within a frequency range of ±100MHz about the resonant frequency and the MRI voltage signal value isrecorded at each frequency step.

In step 108, an MRI operational parameter, such as the RF coil current,is recorded from the MRI device's operating parameters and combiningthis RF current value with the MRI output signal voltage, a variation ofthe impedance of the sample as a function of the RF frequency isdetermined.

In step 110, in accordance with equation (2) and the Smith Curve code,as is known in the art, the RF frequency variation of the sample'sreactance and inductance are determined.

In step 112, the RF frequency difference curves of the sample'sreactance and inductance are recorded and in step 114, the amount ofwater dilution of the sample is determined.

Reference is now made to FIG. 7, which shows a non-destructive on-linesystem 200 for detecting a presence of a material in a substance, inaccordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention.The non-destructive on-line system 200 includes, inter alia, an MRIdevice 212 for generating a magnetic field 214 between an upper portion216 and a lower portion 218 of the MRI device 212, as is known in theart. An tunable RF coil 220 is located in a volume of interest 222 ofthe MRI device 212, as is known in the art.

A container 224 is encompassed by the tunable RF coil 220 and includes asample of the substance for testing the amount of water dilution.

A signal detector 230, including inter alia, an antenna 232 detects MRIsignals emitted by the MRI device 212 and demodulates the receivedsignals to obtain MRI signals, as is known in the art. Typically, theoutput signals are MRI voltage signals

The RF frequency of the RF coil 220 is varied about an RF resonantfrequency of the substance, typically, within a frequency range of ±100MHz of the resonant frequency, such that an RF frequency spectrum isobtained. The variation of the RF frequency results in the outputvoltage signals from the signal detector 230 are frequency-dependent.

A processing unit 234 is connected to the signal detector 230 and isconfigured to determine an impedance frequency variation from thefrequency-dependent output voltage signals, V(f), and at least one MRIdevice parameter. Typically, during the operation of the MRI device 212,the MRI device 212 records several operational parameters, such as theoutput power, (P), of the RF coil as well as the RF current flowingthrough the coil, I.

Based on these parameters, the processing unit 234 determines afrequency-dependent impedance of the sample of substance and thefrequency-dependent reactances and inductances, using a Smith Chartprocessing code, as is known in the art and as described hereinabove.The processing unit 234 determines the variation of C(f) and L(f) as afunction of the RF frequency.

EXAMPLES

Below are given various examples which demonstrate the use of thepresent invention for on-line nondestructive testing. The examplesdescribe the manner and process of the present invention and set forththe best mode contemplated by the inventors for carrying out theinvention. These examples are not to be construed as limiting theinvention.

Example 1

A water salinity check can be used for homeland security in the event ofa spilling a poison, contaminant or chemical in a water reservoir.Although many of the existing detection single devices can detectcontaminants at very low concentrations, these devices are oftenspecific to a contaminant or a group of contaminants. Since the physicaland chemical properties of contaminants can vary greatly and instrumentswhich check for the existence of a specific contaminant is not useful ifthe of little use because that contaminant may not be the one used. Mostof the biological monitors, such as the use of algae, had limiteddistribution system. Monitors that use fish or mussels can detectcyanide and chlorinated pesticides, but not at the desired detectionlimit.

Using the present invention, water from a water-well is pumped throughthe fluid conduit of the present invention and MRI measurements of thewater flow are performed. The MRI signals from the water flow arerecorded. The RF frequency of the RF coil is adjusted to the resonancefrequency of water and the frequency of the RF coil is adjusted aboutthe resonance frequency. The frequency-dependent reactance andinductance plots for the water flow are determined from a Smith Curvecode and the quality of the water flow is monitored. The variation ofthe reactance and inductance plots from a standard plot enablesdetection of the water composition change. An alert is activated if thesystem detects a predetermined significant change.

Example 2

The current invention is operated in a ketchup production line. The MRIdevice or alternatively MRI-free device is calibrated to the standardresonance frequency of a tomato ketchup. The MRI signals from theketchup which flow through the flow conduit are optionally recorded. TheRF frequency of the RF coil is adjusted to the resonance frequency ofthe tomato ketchup and the frequency of the RF coil is adjusted aboutthe resonance frequency. The frequency-dependent reactance andinductance plots for the ketchup flow are monitored continuously.On-line information, such as water quantity or water activity, Aw, arealso available, enabling either an automatic or manual response todiversions therefrom. Typically, an alert is activated if the systemdetects a predetermined change, such as 0.5%, in the reactance and/orinductance resonant values. Thus, the amount of water may be increasedor decreased to the ketchup according to the customer requirements andpreferences.

Example 3

The current invention is operated in an apple puree production line. TheMRI device or alternatively MRI-free device is calibrated to thestandard resonance frequency of the apple puree. Optionally, the MRIsignals from the apple puree flow through the flow conduit are recorded.The RF frequency of the RF coil is adjusted to the resonance frequencyof the apple puree and the frequency of the RF coil is adjusted aboutthe resonance frequency. The frequency-dependent reactance andinductance plots for the apple puree flow are monitored continuously.On-line information, such as water quantity or water activity, Aw, arealso available, enabling either an automatic or manual response todiversions therefrom. Typically, an alert is activated if the systemdetects a predetermined change, such as 0.5%, in the reactance and/orinductance resonant values. Thus, the amount of water may be increasedor decreased to the apple puree according to the customer requirementsand preferences.

Example 4

In the chemical industry it is desired to minimize human exposure tochemicals, such as dangerous chemicals and explosives, for safetyreasons and to avoid human error. Using the present invention, it ispossible to determine changes in concentration of particular chemicals,such as hydrogen peroxide concentration, in the fluid conduit anddetermine the diversions from the RF resonant frequency of differentchemicals. The current invention performs a correlation, such as alinear correlation, between the reactance and inductance RF frequencyresonant values and the determines a percentage of a particular chemicalcomponent, for example, hydrogen peroxide, glycol in the processchemical or slurry in the fluid conduit.

Example 5

Using the present invention to provide an automated and non-invasiveon-line monitoring of chemical reactions, such as NaOH+Cl₂→NaOCl+HCl.The frequency-dependency of the reactances and inductances aredetermined about the resonant frequency are recorded.

Example 6

The system also provides an automated and non-invasive monitoring of agrain stream. The information of the grain monitoring is used toestablish the quality characteristics and the value of the grain. Themonitoring is also necessary for proper grain storage management.Information from the grain, such as grain moisture content and theamount of foreign material, can be used to determine appropriate actionto maintain the quality of the stored product. The distribution ofconstituents is generally not uniform throughout the load; theconstituents of the grain mass stratify and segregate. This causesvariations in the physical characteristics within the load. The airspace between the grain constituents causes leaps in the measurement.The method of monitoring is therefore extremely important to ensure thatthe grain stream is truly representative of the whole grain mass. Thefrequency per unit volume of grain is measured. A smith chart ismeasured, and the measurement of the resonant frequency is recorded. Theinformation about the obtained grain moisture is the average moisture ofthe whole grain mass.

In the foregoing description, embodiments of the invention, includingpreferred embodiments, have been presented for the purpose ofillustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive orto limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obviousmodifications or variations are possible in light of the aboveteachings. The embodiments were chosen and described to provide the bestillustration of the principals of the invention and its practicalapplication, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilizethe invention in various embodiments and with various modifications asare suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modificationsand variations are within the scope of the invention as determined bythe appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth theyare fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.

What is claimed is:
 1. An MRI-free non-destructive on-line system fordetecting a presence of a material in a sample of a substancecomprising: a flow conduit encompassed by the tunable RF coil and havingan input duct and an output duct; a flow of said sample through saidflow conduit; a signal detector for detecting frequency-dependent outputsignals as a function of a frequency variation of the RF tunable coilwithin a frequency range of an RF resonant frequency of a standardsample of said substance, and a processing unit, wherein said processingunit is configured to: determine an impedance frequency variation fromsaid frequency-dependent output signals; determine an RF frequencyvariation of at least one characteristic parameter of said substancefrom said impedance frequency variation, and compare said RF frequencyvariation of said at least one characteristic parameter of said samplewith an RF frequency variation of a corresponding characteristic of astandard sample of said substance such that said comparison determinessaid material content of said sample.
 2. The non-destructive on-linesystem according to claim 1, wherein said at least one characteristic ofsaid substance is selected from the group consisting of at least onephysical characteristic, at least one electrochemical characteristic, atleast one chemical characteristic and at least one biological (PPECB)characteristic and any combination thereof.
 3. The non-destructiveon-line system according to claim 2, wherein said at least onecharacteristic comprises either an electrical inductance of saidsubstance or an electrical reactance of said substance.
 4. Thenon-destructive on-line system according to claim 2, wherein saidphysical parameter is selected from the group consisting of boilingpoint, refractive index, viscosity, moisture content, rheologicproperties, magnetic properties.
 5. The non-destructive on-line systemaccording to claim 2, said electrochemical parameter is selected fromconductivity, pH, oxygen content, permittivity permeability, dielectricconstant and any combination thereof.
 6. The non-destructive on-linesystem according to claim 2, wherein said chemical parameter is selectedfrom the group consisting of chemical concentration and identity of thecomposition and any combination thereof.
 7. The non-destructive on-linesystem according to claim 2, wherein said biological parameter isselected from the group consisting of bacteria, mold, fungi, alga,virus, microorganisms, eukaryotes and any combination thereof.
 8. Thenon-destructive on-line method according to claim 1, wherein saidfrequency range is approximately ±100 MHz of said resonant frequency. 9.The non-destructive on-line method according to claim 1, wherein saidmaterial comprises water.
 10. The non-destructive on-line systemaccording to claim 1, wherein said output signal comprises either avoltage signal or an RF voltage signal.
 11. The non-destructive on-linesystem according to claim 1, wherein said processing unit is furtherconfigured to optimize a production process of said sample.
 12. Thesystem according to claim 1, adapted to measure and control the sampleundergoing a modification said modification is selected from the groupconsisting of a physical modification, biological modification, chemicalmodification and any combination thereof.
 13. The non-destructiveon-line system according to claim 1, wherein said sample is selectedfrom the group consisting of tomato puree, tomato ketchup, tomato paste,tomato sauce, tomato beverage, tomato soup, tomato concentrate, applepuree, apple paste, apple sauce, apple beverage, apple concentrate,potato puree, potato paste, potato sauce, potato beverage, potatoconcentrate.
 14. The non-destructive on-line system according to claim1, adapted to measure and to control water pollution by at least onecontaminant said at least one contaminant is selected from organiccontaminants, inorganic contaminants and any combination thereof. 15.The non-destructive on-line system according to claim 1, adapted tomeasure an acidity parameter in a food product.
 16. The non-destructiveon-line system according to claim 1, wherein said sample is furtherselected from the group consisting of a solid, a sol-gel, asuper-critical solution and any combination thereof.
 17. Thenon-destructive on-line system according to claim 16, wherein said solidis selected from the group consisting of nano-particles, fine powders,flowing solids and any combination thereof.
 18. The non-destructiveon-line system according to claim 1, wherein said material is furtherselected from the group consisting of water-miscible fluids,water-immiscible fluids, aggregated solutions, dispersions, emulsions,solution, slurry, polymer, solid and powder and any combination thereof.19. The non-destructive on-line according to claim 1, wherein saidprocessor provides a Smith Chart of said impedance frequency variationas a function of said RF frequency such that said impedance frequencyvariation is function of the reactance and inductance of fluid sample.20. The non-destructive on-line system according to claim 1, whereinsaid sample comprises either a fluid state or a solid state.
 21. Thenon-destructive on-line method according to claim 1, wherein saidfrequency range is approximately from said resonant frequency minus 100MHz to said resonant frequency plus 100 MHz.
 22. The non-destructiveon-line method according to claim 1, wherein said material compriseswater.
 23. The non-destructive on-line system according to claim 1,wherein said output signal comprises either a voltage signal or an RFvoltage signal.
 24. The non-destructive on-line system according toclaim 1, wherein said processing unit is further configured to optimizea production process of said sample.
 25. The system according to claim1, adapted to measure and control the sample undergoing a modificationsaid modification is selected from the group consisting of a physicalmodification, biological modification, chemical modification and anycombination thereof.
 26. The non-destructive on-line system according toclaim 1, wherein said substance is selected from the group consisting oftomato puree, tomato ketchup, tomato paste, tomato sauce, tomatobeverage, tomato soup, tomato concentrate, apple puree, apple paste,apple sauce, apple beverage, apple concentrate, potato puree, potatopaste, potato sauce, potato beverage, potato concentrate.
 27. Thenon-destructive on-line system according to claim 1, adapted to measureand to control water pollution by at least one contaminant said at leastone contaminant is selected from organic contaminants, inorganiccontaminants and any combination thereof.
 28. The non-destructiveon-line system according to claim 1, adapted to measure an acidityparameter in a food product.
 29. The non-destructive on-line systemaccording to claim 1, wherein said substance is selected from the groupconsisting of water-miscible fluids, water-immiscible fluids, aggregatedsolutions, dispersions, emulsions, solution, slurry, polymer, solid andpowder and any combination thereof.
 30. The non-destructive on-lineaccording to claim 1, wherein said processor provides a Smith Chart ofsaid impedance frequency variation as a function of said RF frequencyand wherein said RF frequency variation of inductance and said RFvariation of reactance are determined by use of said Smith Chart. 31.The non-destructive on-line system according to claim 1, wherein saidsample comprises either a fluid state or a solid state.
 32. Anon-destructive on-line method for detecting a material in a sample of asubstance comprising: providing a flow conduit encompassed by thetunable RF coil; providing a flow of said sample through said flowconduit; detecting frequency-dependent output signals as a function of afrequency variation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range ofan RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance, anddetermining an impedance frequency variation from saidfrequency-dependent output signals; determining an RF frequencyvariation of at least one characteristic of said substance from saidimpedance frequency variation; comparing said RF frequency variation ofsaid at least characteristic of said substance with an RF frequencyvariation of a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of saidsubstance, wherein said comparison determines said material content ofsaid sample.
 33. A non-destructive on-line system for detecting apresence of a material in a sample of a substance comprising: acontainer encompassed by the tunable RF coil; a signal detector fordetecting frequency-dependent output signals as a function of afrequency variation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range ofan RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance, and aprocessing unit, wherein said processing unit is configured to:determine an impedance frequency variation from said frequency-dependentoutput signals; determine an RF frequency variation of at least onecharacteristic parameter of said substance from said impedance frequencyvariation, and compare said RF frequency variation of said at least onecharacteristic parameter of said sample with an RF frequency variationof a corresponding characteristic of a standard sample of said substancesuch that said comparison determines said material content of saidsample.
 34. A non-destructive on-line system for detecting a presence ofa material a substance comprising: an MRI device comprising a tunable RFcoil and a signal detector, said signal detector is configured fordetecting frequency-dependent output signals as a function of afrequency variation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range ofan RF resonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance; a flowconduit encompassed by said tunable RF coil and having an input duct andan output duct to allow a flow of said substance therethrough; and aprocessing unit, wherein said processing unit is configured to: receivesaid frequency-dependent output signals from said detector; determine animpedance frequency variation from said frequency-dependent outputsignals and at least one operational parameter of the MRI device;determine RF frequency variation of inductance and RF variation ofreactance from said impedance frequency variation; and compare at leastone of the RF frequency variation of the inductance and the RF frequencyvariation of the electrical reactance with an RF frequency variation ofa corresponding inductance or reactance of a said standard sample ofsaid substance such that said comparison determines said materialcontent of said substance.
 35. A non-destructive on-line method fordetecting a material in a sample of a substance comprising: providing anMRI device comprising a tunable RF coil; providing a flow conduitencompassed by the tunable RF coil of said MRI device; providing a flowof said sample through said flow conduit; detecting frequency-dependentoutput signals from said MRI device as a function of a frequencyvariation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range of an RFresonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance, anddetermining an impedance frequency variation from saidfrequency-dependent output signals and at least one predetermined MRIoperational parameter; determining an RF frequency variation ofinductance and/or reactance of said substance from said impedancefrequency variation; comparing said RF frequency variation of saidinductance and/or reactance of said substance with an RF frequencyvariation of a corresponding inductance and/or reactance of the standardsample of said substance, wherein said comparison determines saidmaterial content of said sample.
 36. A non-destructive on-line systemfor detecting a presence of a material in a sample of a substancecomprising: an MRI device comprising a tunable RF coil and a signaldetector, said signal detector is configured for detectingfrequency-dependent output signals as a function of a frequencyvariation of the RF tunable coil within a frequency range of an RFresonant frequency of a standard sample of said substance; a containerencompassed by said tunable RF coil containing said sample of asubstance; and a processing unit, wherein said processing unit isconfigured to: receive said frequency-dependent output signals from saiddetector; determine an impedance frequency variation from saidfrequency-dependent output signals and at least one operationalparameter of the MRI device; determine RF frequency variation ofinductance and RF variation of reactance from said impedance frequencyvariation; and compare at least one-of the RF frequency variation of theinductance and the RF frequency variation of the electrical reactancewith an RF frequency variation of a corresponding inductance orreactance of a said standard sample of said substance such that saidcomparison determines said material content of said sample of asubstance.